Do You Know What a Robot Is?

By Mike Selvon

Robots are one of the most popular visions of the future, evident in many science fiction novels, from Isaac Asimov's "I Robot" to Douglas Adam's "Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy." Often humankind fears that robotics technology could get so advanced that these cybernetic organisms will begin thinking and acting for themselves, with little regard for human hierarchy. However, the robots we use today are quite harmless and perform a number of useful functions.

Scientists are looking at how robots may function medically to help people live longer, more productive lives. For instance, researchers found that test monkeys can move a robotic hand simply by using their minds. That hand can wave, peel a banana and pick up items, just by reading the brain's electrical output.

Doctors say medical robots can help stroke victims or paraplegics accomplish everyday tasks. Currently, electronic wheelchairs can maneuver and computers can type based on one's thoughts. Dr. Bruce Volpe of the Burke Medical Research Institute is developing a "robotic therapist," which will help stroke patients perform arm exercises. "By improving movement in the shoulder and upper arm, patients can do simple things like push objects across a table, use a computer mouse or write," he explains.

Rehabilitation is another fascinating use for robots. At a consumer electronics show in Las Vegas, Paro Roberts revealed his $6,000 robotic seals that may replace cat and dog therapeutic robots used in hospitals and nursing homes. These exotic machines are also finding their way into homes, as they're cheaper (and easier) than caring for a traditional pet.

This robot, named Paro after its creator, reacts with noises and expressions of approval or disapproval, depending on how it's handled. Japanese robotics engineering creators say that robots could be the key to helping an aging population with problems of loneliness. "Playing with robots reduces problem behavior and they gain a certain peace of mind," explains Toshiyo Tamura, a professor at the National Institute for Longevity Sciences.

Who could forget the ever-so-endearing "Rosie," the house-cleaning robot from The Jetsons? While she seemed like every homeowner's dream come true back in 1962, her doppelgangers are now becoming a reality in 2009. Engineers at MIT Humanoid Robot Group say "Domo" can place objects on a shelf, put away dishes, turn lights on or off, fetch items, put away groceries, set the table, carry boxes and follow basic commands. While the technology is far too expensive to be commonplace in every household right now, the future for intelligent robots is bright.

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